First ReadingActs 20:28-38
From the Acts of the Apostles
28Take heed, therefore,to yourselves and to all the flock,in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers,to shepherd the assembly of the Lord and Godwhich he purchased with his own blood.29For I know that after my departure,vicious wolves will enter in among you,not sparing the flock.30Men will arise from among your own selves,speaking perverse things,to draw away the disciples after them.31Therefore watch, rememberingthat for a period of three years I didn’t cease to admonish everyone night and day with tears.32Now, brothers, I entrust you to Godand to the word of his grace,which is able to build upand to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified.33I coveted no one’s silver, gold, or clothing.34You yourselves knowthat these hands served my necessities,and those who were with me.35In all things I gave you an example,that so laboring you ought to help the weak,and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus,that he himself said,‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”
36When he had spoken these things,he knelt down and prayed with them all.37They all wept freely,and fell on Paul’s neck and kissed him,38sorrowing most of allbecause of the word which he had spoken,that they should see his face no more.Then they accompanied him to the ship.